play area safety inspection report all wakefield council 23 september 2015 · 2017-10-09 ·...
TRANSCRIPT
23 September 2015
PLAY AREA SAFETY INSPECTION REPORT
RoSPA inspections are an independent safety assessment of the playground and equipment and are produced for
RoSPA by
All Wakefield Council
Play Safety Inspection Report. The Report Notes form an essential part of this report Generated by :Page 1 of 27
Inspected by :
Date of Inspection :
Site Name :
PLAY AREA SAFETY INSPECTION REPORT
The Hepworth Gallery
23 September 2015
Nick Taylor
Site Owner : All Wakefield Council
The present overall risk rating for the play space is Medium
If works and recommendations are undertaken the risk may be reduced.
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Recommended Maintenance and Risk Assessment EvaluationANCILLARY ITEMS
Item Type Comments, action or control required Risk Level Risk Score‡
Facilities
Very Low 3Litter Bins x 2 Bins
Risk Level :
Risk Score : 2
Very Low
Finding : Item - Panel damaged/loose/missing
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Task : Replace item
Low 6Litter Bins x 2 Bins
Risk Level :
Risk Score : 2
Very Low
Finding : Item - Loose in Ground
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Task : Secure and make stable main frame and
supports
Low 7Seating x 4 Seating
Risk Level :
Risk Score : 3
Very Low
Finding : Timber - Splintered
23/09/2015Finding Date :
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Task : Replace splintered timber
Low 4Seating x 4 Seating
Risk Level :
Risk Score : 3
Very Low
Finding : Item - Base bolts loose
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Task : Tighten loose fixtures & fittings
Perimeter
Fencing Fencing
Risk Level :
Risk Score : 2
Very Low
Satisfactory
Gate - Vehicle Entrance
Risk Level :
Risk Score : 3
Very Low
Satisfactory
Low 5Gates - Pedesterian Entrance
Risk Level :
Risk Score : 3
Very Low
Finding : Entrapment on side(s) of gate
Play Safety Inspection Report. The Report Notes form an essential part of this report Generated by :Page 4 of 27
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Task : Adjust gate/posts/fit new rubber buffer to
ensure a spacing of at least 12mm throughout the
range of the gate to remove the entrapment. The
12 mm gap also should apply on the hinge side of
the gate
Site
Low 5Path - Internal - Paviors Paths
Risk Level :
Risk Score : 4
Low
Finding : Surface - Trip points
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Notes : Various trip points due to nature of
surface.
Task : No action given the risk assessment
Signs Signage
Risk Level :
Risk Score : 2
Very Low
Satisfactory
The overall risk for the ancillary items at the time of inspection:
‡ For Risk Score see Report Notes
8Medium
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Cableway - Aerial
eibe Play Ltd
Risk Level : Low
Risk Score : 6
Equipment Standard Compliance
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested
on site without dismantling or destruction.
Surfacing EN Compliance - Gravel
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested on site without
dismantling or destruction.
Comments, action or control required Risk Score ‡
Recommended Maintenance and Risk Assessment EvaluationRisk Level
EquipmentThe supports are within the falling / free space area Low 7Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Monitor and check on a routine basisTask :
Runway Ground Clearance - Seats Low 7Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :Modify to meet ENTask :
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Item - Loose in Ground High 18Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Post appears to have been pulled from the ground due to the cable pull - further
investigation required to check stability of unit.
Notes :
IMMOBILISE pending repairTask :
No remedial maintenance work is required at this time.Surfacing - Gravel
The overall risk for this item at the time of inspection: High 18
‡ For Risk Score see Report Notes
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Carousel
eibe Play Ltd
Risk Level : Low
Risk Score : 5
Equipment Standard Compliance
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested
on site without dismantling or destruction.
Surfacing EN Compliance - Grass
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested on site without
dismantling or destruction.
Comments, action or control required Risk Score ‡
Recommended Maintenance and Risk Assessment EvaluationRisk Level
EquipmentFixtures - Loose or Missing Medium 8Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :Centre post loose and causing a closing gap when rotating.Notes :
Tighten loose fixtures & fittingsTask :
No remedial maintenance work is required at this time.Surfacing - Grass
The overall risk for this item at the time of inspection: Medium 8
‡ For Risk Score see Report Notes
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Climber - Rock
Unknown
Risk Level : Low
Risk Score : 7
Equipment Standard Compliance
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested
on site without dismantling or destruction.
Surfacing EN Compliance - Gravel
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested on site without
dismantling or destruction.
Comments, action or control required Risk Score ‡
Recommended Maintenance and Risk Assessment EvaluationRisk Level
Equipment No remedial maintenance work is required at this time.
No remedial maintenance work is required at this time.Surfacing - Gravel
The overall risk for this item at the time of inspection: Low 7
‡ For Risk Score see Report Notes
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Multiplay - Junior
eibe Play Ltd
Risk Level : Low
Risk Score : 6
Equipment Standard Compliance
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested
on site without dismantling or destruction.
Surfacing EN Compliance - Gravel
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested on site without
dismantling or destruction.
Comments, action or control required Risk Score ‡
Recommended Maintenance and Risk Assessment EvaluationRisk Level
EquipmentFixtures - Loose or Missing Low 6Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Tighten loose fixtures & fittingsTask :
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Entrapment - Finger Low 6Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
No action given the risk assessmentTask :
Item - Graffiti - (offensive) Present Low 4Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :Remove graffitiTask :
Item - Loose in Ground Low 5Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Secure and make stable main frame and supportsTask :
Surfacing - GravelAlgae growth on surface giving slippery conditions Low 6Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Powerwashing is recommended. Care should be taken to ensure that the surface
can sustain high pressure washing
Task :
The overall risk for this item at the time of inspection: Low 6
‡ For Risk Score see Report Notes
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Multiplay - Ship
eibe Play Ltd
Risk Level : Low
Risk Score : 6
Equipment Standard Compliance
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested
on site without dismantling or destruction.
Surfacing EN Compliance - Gravel
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested on site without
dismantling or destruction.
Comments, action or control required Risk Score ‡
Recommended Maintenance and Risk Assessment EvaluationRisk Level
EquipmentFixtures - Loose or Missing Low 5Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Replace missing fasteners, fixtures and fittingTask :
Item - Cap missing Very Low 3Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Replace itemTask :
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Timber - New Wide Cracks Low 7Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Replace itemTask :
Timber - Splintered Medium 8Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Repair splintered timberTask :
Fixtures - Loose or Missing Low 5Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Replace missing fasteners, fixtures and fittingTask :
Item - Graffiti - (offensive) Present Low 4Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :Remove graffitiTask :
There are natural splits/shakes in the timbers. Low 5Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Shakes vary. Monitor and consult manufacturer is dimensions exceed 8mm at
sections used to grip/grasp.
Task :
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Fixtures - Loose or Missing Medium 8Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Tighten loose fixtures & fittingsTask :
Surfacing - GravelSurface - Vandalised (arson) Low 4Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Replace damaged areaTask :
The overall risk for this item at the time of inspection: Medium 8
‡ For Risk Score see Report Notes
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Rocker - Seesaw
eibe Play Ltd
Risk Level : Low
Risk Score : 4
Equipment Standard Compliance
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested
on site without dismantling or destruction.
Surfacing EN Compliance - Grasscrete
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested on site without
dismantling or destruction.
Comments, action or control required Risk Score ‡
Recommended Maintenance and Risk Assessment EvaluationRisk Level
EquipmentFixtures - Loose or Missing Medium 8Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :Seesaw pivoting horizontally on legs.Notes :
Tighten loose fixtures & fittingsTask :
No remedial maintenance work is required at this time.Surfacing - Grasscrete
The overall risk for this item at the time of inspection: Medium 8
‡ For Risk Score see Report Notes
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Swing - Basket
eibe Play Ltd
Risk Level : Medium
Risk Score : 8
Equipment Standard Compliance
The item fails to meet the requirement of the relevant standard.
Surfacing EN Compliance - Gravel
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested on site without
dismantling or destruction.
Comments, action or control required Risk Score ‡
Recommended Maintenance and Risk Assessment EvaluationRisk Level
EquipmentItem - Loose in Ground Medium 8Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :Secure and make stable main frame and supportsTask :
Entrapment - Finger Low 6Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
No action given the risk assessmentTask :
Timber - Splintered Low 5Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Repair splintered timberTask :
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Item - Incorrectly Installed Medium 12Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
The basket has been installed incorrectly. The thicker part of the padding should be
in the direction of travel and the banding should be at the side. Being incorrectly
installed had put excessive wear on the mounting points.
Notes :
Repair itemTask :
Item - Bolt(s) loose Low 4Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Tighten loose fixtures & fittingsTask :
There is considerable wear to the swing-chains. Medium 8Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Replace worn partsTask :
No remedial maintenance work is required at this time.Surfacing - Gravel
The overall risk for this item at the time of inspection: Medium 12
‡ For Risk Score see Report Notes
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Swing - Toddler - 2 Bay 4 Seat
eibe Play Ltd
Risk Level : Very Low
Risk Score : 3
Equipment Standard Compliance
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested
on site without dismantling or destruction.
Surfacing EN Compliance - Gravel
The item meets with the requirements of the relevant standard where this may be tested on site without
dismantling or destruction.
Comments, action or control required Risk Score ‡
Recommended Maintenance and Risk Assessment EvaluationRisk Level
EquipmentFixtures - Loose or Missing Low 6Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Tighten loose fixtures & fittingsTask :
Bolt(s) Missing Low 4Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Replace missing partsTask :
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Chain - Connectors Worn Low 6Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Replace worn partsTask :
Seat(s) set at incorrect height Low 6Finding :
23/09/2015Finding Date :
Re-set to correct height. To meet EN 1176, the minimum ground clearance is 350
mm for standard seats, 400 mm for tyre and group seats. With baskets/nests the
400 mm is measured from the lower edge of its outer ring when at its closest
position to the ground. A maximum seat surface to ground distance of 635mm is
recommended.
Task :
No remedial maintenance work is required at this time.Surfacing - Gravel
The overall risk for this item at the time of inspection: Low 6
‡ For Risk Score see Report Notes
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REPORT NOTES
These notes form an integral part of the inspection report. Reading them may save you unnecessary
expenditure.
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The Society's inspections cover :
Site safety
Suitability and conditions of ancillary items
Standard compliance, suitability and condition of equipment
Dimensional compliance, suitability and condition of surfacing
RoSPA reports indicate the condition of the play area at the time of inspection. Subsequent events such as weather
conditions, usage, or vandalism etc. may affect the condition of the play area. Routine inspections should be
undertaken by the operator to monitor the effects of these.
Standard assessment is undertaken where appraisal may be made without dismantling or destruction.
RoSPA inspections are non-dismantling inspections. Where it is felt that removal of parts for assessment is required,
this will be indicated. (See paragraph 13). It is not possible to check for internal corrosion/rot without dismantling the
equipment.
Surfacing has been assessed solely in terms of the area covered and its condition or security. Tests for impact
absorbency are available at an economic rate if required.
Where there is open water within easy walking distance of the play area it is recommended that a water safety
report be commissioned (RoSPA can undertake this).
Where there are trees within falling distance of the play area it is recommended that a report on the integrity of the
tree is obtained from a competent arboricultural expert (see www.trees.org.uk for a list of qualified consultants)
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The equipment has been assessed, as relevant, in accordance with BS EN 1176:2008 "Playground Equipment", BS
EN 15312 (Sports Areas) and BS EN 14974 (Wheeled Sports). No standard currently exists for fitness equipment
and the report may indicate compliance with EN Standards. Where action is required for fitness items this will be
indicated in the report.
The BS EN1176:1998 was published on 1 January 1999 when existing standards were withdrawn and was revised in
2008. This means that some equipment or surfacing that previously met the old standard may now fail, and vice
versa.
This does not mean that equipment has suddenly become dangerous or that remedial action is required.
Generally equipment that fails BS EN 1176:2008 but passed the previous standard BS EN 1176:1998 at time
of installation should be considered safe (excluding any maintenance issues).
Where there is a compliance failure, this is briefly noted and a risk assessment made of the failure. Where we
believe action is required this is indicated in more detail and identified as a medium or high risk. (See
paragraph 13). Where no action is indicated, in our opinion there is no practical economic action that can be taken
and the risks do not justify removal of the item. The judgement whether to take action or not rests with the owner.
Low risk items should be monitored and if accidents occur, remedial action will be required (There is no such thing
as NO risk). RoSPA will continue to monitor these failures to comply and, if necessary, will indicate action on future
annual reports.
Standard compliance is not mandatory or retrospective
Where no protective surface is provided with items which have a fall height in excess of 600mm, the installation of a
protective surface should be considered. Such surfacing is not mandatory but does represent good practice. An
information leaflet is available on the web site. It should be noted that BS EN 1176:2008 allows well-maintained
grass for fall heights of up to 1.5 metres subject to risk assessment.
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The RoSPA web site, www.rospa.com/playsafety gives the answers to the most frequently asked questions and
may answer any queries that you have, alternatively E-mail us on [email protected]. The web site
also includes copies of all our information sheets in easily downloadable form.
10
9 Tarmac, concrete and other hard surfaces are allowable under equipment for fall heights up to 600 mm unless there
is forced movement, in which case protective surfacing is recommended. Risk assessments should still be
conducted to ensure hard surfaces are suitable for the intended users.
In addition to inspecting the equipment and surfacing, the inspection also looked at ancillary items and general
design features where relevant to safety.
Wear to shackle pins and bushes on swings is difficult to detect on non-dismantling inspections. Checks are made
to identify excessive movement in the ‘D’ shackle and where dry bearings are obvious. Whilst this action can often
identify serious defects it does not preclude the possibility of shackle pin failure in rare circumstances. It is
recommended that random inspection by removal of the ‘D’ shackle and pin is carried out as a regular maintenance
feature in the site owner’s work programme. Units with shackles pins over 2.5 metres in height can be difficult to
check from ground level and it is recommended that the operator conducts a dismantling inspection of such fixtures.
It should be noted that this is a safety report, not a standard compliance report, and compliance/non compliance
with EN1176 is normally indicated. However failures may not be mentioned where they are very minor, or of a
technical nature, and have no noticeable effect on safety.
A risk assessment of faults and Standard failures is given in terms of low, medium and high. As a general
principle items marked as “low” only require monitoring. Items marked as “medium” require appropriate action
within resources and individual site assessment. Items marked as “high” require urgent action. In rare cases
where an item is likely to result in major injury or death, the operator or appropriate representative will be notified
from the site by telephone. This will be indicated on the report.
RoSPA risk scores come in the following bands:
1 to 3 Very Low Risk
4 to 7 Low Risk
8 to 12 Medium Risk
13 to 20 High Risk
21+ Unacceptably High Risk
Our report shows on the left the default, or intrinsic, risk of the item. Any faults or findings will have their risk shown
on the right of the page. If the remedial works are carried out then the item will return to its default risk score.
There can be problems with assessing ground decay where synthetic surface
has been installed. Similar problems may occur with sub-surface degradation. While RoSPA takes every care to
check ground decay and corrosion in supports, this cannot be done fully without removal and destruction of the
surface.
In order to provide economic reports, standard wording is used for most common standard/maintenance failures.
RoSPA inspectors also work using previous year’s reports (where available). This may mean that where there
have been few changes to the site, the current report may be similar to the previous year’s report.
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The Disability Discrimination Acts 1995 and 2005 apply to play areas. There is a duty, where practicable, to make
reasonable provision for equal opportunities for disabled people and a further duty on local authorities to promote
access for disabled people. RoSPA can advise on this.
Brief notes on EN 1176 are displayed at the end of the report.16
The copyright in this report is shared between RoSPA and the report commissioner. The report commissioner is free to share the
contents of this report, but it must be shared in full.
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INSURANCE NOTES
The HSE and the Courts state that where practical risks should be reduced to “an acceptable level”. It is worth noting that the
courts are being reasonable robust regarding claims and RoSPA are aware of recent instances where the courts have not only
thrown out speculative claims but have at the same time awarded costs against the claimant.
Successful litigation depends upon being able to prove negligence on behalf of the operator. Just because someone has an accident
it does not mean that the operator was negligent. It could however be deemed that the failure of the operator to reduce risk to an
acceptable level is negligence. Some items of equipment, by the very nature of the activity that takes place on them, are risked as
being medium or high risk. This may well be deemed an acceptable level. For instance any sports facility (including Multi Use
games areas etc) will normally be at least medium risk. This is because by playing sport there is always a risk of injury (torn
ligaments, sprain injuries etc). Someone cannot successfully sue just because they get an injury. They have to prove that they got
the injury as a result of the negligence of the site operator. Similarly Wheeled Sports (Skateboard etc) facilities, even in perfect
condition, are high risk. This acknowledges that some “nasty” injuries occur when a skateboarder, for instance, tries a complex
trick and gets it wrong with subsequent injury. The only time the operator could be held responsible is if the accident could be
caused by their negligence and “getting a trick wrong” by the skateboarder is nothing to do with the operator
It should be appreciated that there is no such thing as “no risk”. There is a risk associated with everything we do and Low Risk is as
low as you can get. Therefore as you cannot get lower than low risk, it is reasonable that remedial work on items indicated with low
risk failures in this report and where some remedial action is suggested is only undertaken when resources are available. Very low
cost work is recommended to be completed within 12 months but in all other circumstances a much longer time cycle is
acceptable and in the case of equipment nearing the end of its useful working life any action may not be considered necessary.
The comments in the Introductory Notes to this report also cover, when read in conjunction with the above, medium and high risk
and this includes recommended time scales where RoSPA are recommending remedial work.
Finally, Professor David Ball, an advisor to the HSE, has estimated that the risk of a life threatening injury on any form of play area
is less than 1:30,000,000. The HSE consider that a 1:10,000,000 chance is negligible so the risk of any life threatening injury on an
area where children and young people play is insignificant.
In spite of this, RoSPA recommend that all site operators carry a minimum of £5,000,000 public liability insurance for their own
protection and that they undertake routine documented inspections of their own in addition to the annual RoSPA report .
RoSPA WORLD WIDE
RoSPA Playsafety is the largest playground inspection service in the world with a presence on four continents . This provides a vast
pool of expertise on play safety and the internal communication system is such that if, say, an inspector in Australia, finds a
problem with a particular item of equipment, ALL RoSPA Playsafety inspectors throughout the world would be made aware of it ,
normally within 24 hours. RoSPA’s world wide experience and access to accident data means that the risks indicated are based on
hard evidence. This means that your report is based on this world wide experience and expertise.
Details of some of the other RoSPA Playsafety Services are listed at the end of this report
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EN 1176 : GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Minimum Space Around Equipment and Zones
* This is intended to reduce the likelihood of collisions
PROTECTION AGAINST INJURIES IN THE FREE SPACE
* No obstacles in the minimum space (other than structures to assist or safeguard the user)
* Traffic flows should not go through the minimum space
PROTECTION AGAINST INJURIES IN THE FALLING SPACE
* Free height of fall should not exceed 3m
* No obstacles in the falling space
* Platforms with fall heights of more than 1m between them require surfacing
PROTECTION AGAINST INJURIES DUE TO OTHER TYPES OF MOVEMENT
* No unexpected obstacles
SURFACING SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
* Surfacing should have no sharp edges or protrusions
* Loose fills should be 200mm more than the depth required to meet the HIC reading (usually 100mm)
* Hard surfaces should only be used where the fall height is not over 600 mm and where there is no forced movement
* Testable Impact absorbing surfaces if falls over 600mm are possible. Topsoil or turf may be used up to 1.5 m
DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE
* The equipment must be suitable for the user and risks should be identifiable by the child
* Accessibility: adults must be able to gain access to help children
* Grip requirements: permitted diameter 16 - 45mm (e.g. overhead bars)
* Grasp requirements: maximum diameter 60mm (e.g. handrails on steps)
* Easily accessible equipment has stricter requirements
FINISHING
* Timber species and synthetics should be splinter resistant
* No protrusions or sharp edged components
* Bolts should not protrude by more than 8mm
* Corners, edges or projecting parts over 8mm should have a 3mm radius.
* No hard and sharp-edged parts (i.e. razor blade effect caused by sheet steel )
* No crushing or shearing points
* Connections should not come loose by themselves and should resist removal.
* Timber connections should not rely solely on screws or nails .
* Leaking lubricants should not stain or impair the safety of the equipment
FIBRE ROPES
* Conform to EN 701 or 919 or have a material and load certificate
* Ropes used by hands shall have a soft, non-slip covering
WIRE ROPES
* Non-rotating and corrosion resistant with no splayed wires outside the ferrule
* Wire connector clip threads should protrude less than 8mm
* Turnbuckles should be enclosed, have a loop at each end and be secured
CHAINS
* Maximum opening of individual links: 8.6mm in any one direction.
* Connecting links between chains must be less than 8.6mm or over 12mm
SWINGING SUSPENDED ROPES
* Not combined with swings in the same bay
* Less than 2m long: over 600mm from static parts; over 900mm from swinging parts
* 2m - 4m long: over 1000mm from anything * Diameter: 25 - 45mm
CLIMBING ROPES
* Anchored at both ends and movement less than 20% of rope length
* Single climbing rope diameter: 18 - 45mm (nets comply with Grip requirements)
ENTRAPMENTS
* Entrapment: a place from which children cannot extricate themselves unaided
There are several probes: the Torso Probe, the Small Head Probe, the Large Head Probe, the Wedge (fish) Probe and the
two Finger Rods. There is also a toggle test to reduce the dangers of clothing toggles being caught on slides, fireman’s
poles and roofs.
BRIDGES
* The space between the flexible bridge and rigid sides should be not less than 230mm
ENTRAPMENT OF FEET AND LEGS
* Inclined planes (not suspension bridges) less than 450 should have no gaps over 30mm
* There are no requirements for suspension bridge gaps other than the main entrapment requirements
FINGER ENTRAPMENTS
These occur in: 1. gaps where child’s movement may cause a finger to become stuck ; 2. open-ended tubes; 3. moving gaps
* Tube ends should be securely enclosed and removable only with tools
* Moving gaps should not close to less than 12mm
Barriers and Guard-rails
* Hand-rail: a rail to help the child balance
* Guard-rail: a rail to prevent children falling
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* Barrier: a guard-rail with non-climbable in-fill
HAND-RAILS
* Where required they should be between 600 and 850mm above the standing surface
EASILY ACCESSIBLE EQUIPMENT
* Platforms over 600mm require a barrier with a minimum height of 700mm high + impact absorbing surfacing
EQUIPMENT THAT IS NOT EASILY ACCESSIBLE
* Platforms up to 1000mm: No barriers or guard-rails required + impact absorbing surface over
* Platforms 1000-2000mm: 600 - 850mm high guard-rail + impact absorbing surfacing
* Platforms 2000-3000mm: 700mm high barrier + impact absorbing surfacing
* No bars, infills or steps which can be used as steps. Tops should discourage standing or sitting
MEANS OF ACCESS
The main change in this area is that the probes should now be applied to accesses. All means of access should have no entrapments; be
securely fixed; be level to ± 30 (ramps across width) and have a constant angle. It does not refer to agility equipment used as an access
i.e. arched climbers, scramble nets. There are specific measurements for ladders, stairs and ramps.
SWINGS
The main changes relate to requirements for new types of swings, dimensions and surfacing areas.
REQUIREMENTS
* No all rigid suspension members (i.e. solid bar top to bottom)
* Design should be principally for use by seated children ( RoSPA interpretation)
* Two seats per bay maximum. Cradle and flat seats can be mixed in the same bay, but ensure this is suitable
* Some types of swings have slightly different requirements . Information should be obtained from the supplier
* Single points swing chains should not twist round each other
* Single point swings require a secondary bearing support mechanism if the bearing is not designed for swings
DIMENSIONS
* Minimum ground clearance at rest: 350mm (400mm for single point swings and tyres)
* No maximum seat surface height but RoSPA recommends a max. height of 635mm for cradles and flat seats
* Distance between seat and frame: 20% of swing suspension + 200mm
* Distance between seats: 20% of the swing suspension + 300mm
* Pivot splay (separation distance) at crossbar: width between seat fixings plus 5% of swing suspension length (20% for contact
swings)
SITING
* Swing sets for young children should be separated from those for older children and sited to avoid cross traffic
SURFACING REQUIREMENTS
Forward and Back
* Different areas for synthetic and loose-fill surfaces in a box or pit. Measurements each way are:
1. synthetic: .867 x length of suspension member + 1.75m + 0.50m clear space
2. loose-fill: .867 x length of suspension member + 2.25m + 0.50m clear space
Side width
* Seat width no greater than 500mm: 1.75m minimum (i.e. 0.875mm each way from seat centre)
* Areas for two seats in one bay may overlap providing the distance between seats is correct
Single point swings
* Circular area with a radius equal to the Forward and Backward figure for other swings
SLIDES
SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
* Free-standing slides: the max. vertical height which a stairway can reach without a change of direction is 2.5m.
* Starting section at the top of each chute: length 350mm minimum, zero to 50 downwards at the centre line. N.B. This can be the
platform if the slide is attached to it
* If the starting section is over 400mm long, platform requirements apply
* From a platform, the gap to the slide is the same width as the slide
* Attachment slides over 1m free fall height should have starting section barriers 500mm min. high at one point
* Attachment slides over 1m FFH should have a guard-rail across the entrance at a ht. of between 600-900mm
Sliding sections
* Maximum angle: 600 at any one point and an average of 400
* The width of open and straight slides over 1500mm long should be less than 700mm or greater than 950mm
* Spiral or curved slides should have a width less than 700mm
RUN-OUTS
* Run-outs of at least 300mm are required if the sliding section is under 1.5m long.
* Additional requirements are required for different types of slides
* Average angle of run-outs: type 1 is 100 , type 2 is 50 (both downwards)
* Height of run-out: Less than 1.5m sliding length: max. 200mm. Greater than 1.5m sliding length: max. 350mm
* Users should come to a stop on the run-out section (type 2 only)
* Chutes should have a side height related to the fall height:
1.2m: 100mm minimum : 1.2m - 2.5m: 150mm minimum : Over 2.5m: 500mm minimum
* Maximum side angle from slide bed: 300
* Tops of sides should be rounded or radiused to at least 3mm
* Tunnel slides should be a minimum 750mm high and 750mm wide
* Tunnels should start on or at the end of the starting section and be continuous over the sliding section only
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SURFACING REQUIREMENTS
Normal distances except for the run-out which should be:
* Type 1: 1m each side and 2m beyond
* Type 2: 1m each side and 1m beyond
CABLE RUNWAYS
SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
* Stop at end should progressively slow down the traveller
* Traveller should not be removable except with tools
* No access to internal mechanism
* Suspension mechanism: flexible, exclude risk of strangulation or be at least 2m above the ground in the middle
* Where children hang by the hands, the grip should not be enclosed (e.g. a loop)
* Climbing should be discouraged onto the grip
* Children should be able to get off the seat at any time (i.e. no loops or straps)
* Maximum loaded (1 x 130 kg adult) speed is 7m per second
· If two cables are placed parallel the min. distance between them is 2m
IMPACT AREAS
* 2m either side of main cable
ROTATING ITEMS
NOTE: Rotating items under 500mm diameter are excluded from these requirements
SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
* Maximum free height of fall: 1000mm (For overhead items: 1500 - 3000mm)
* Hand grips should be between 16 - 45mm
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
There are specific requirements for different types of roundabout . The two most common ones are:
Platform roundabouts:
* Platforms should be circular and enclosed
* All parts should revolve in the same direction
* No super-structure over the edge of the platform
* Mechanism should be enclosed
* Height between underside and ground 60 - 110mm for 300mm inwards, then at least 60 mm for the remainder
* Protective skirts should be of rigid material and have no burrs or other defects
* The bottom edge should be flared towards the inside or protected
Giant revolving discs
* Clearance of underside at lowest point: 300mm
* Max. platform height: 1m
* Free space: 3m
* Upper surface should be continuous, smooth and with no handles or grips
* Underside should be continuous, smooth and without any radial variations (i.e. spokes) or indentations
MINIMUM SPACE
* Free space: Horizontal: 2m all round
* Vertical head clearance from platform: sitting 1.5m ; standing 1.8m
* Small rotating items under 500mm diameter are excluded but RoSPA suggests as for rocking items
SURFACING REQUIREMENTS
* There are no special extra requirements for surfacing areas
* Surfaces should be continuous underneath and level
ROCKING ITEMS
DEFINITIONS
* Rocking equipment which can be moved by the user and is supported from below
* Damping: any movement restricting device. (N.B. Springs are treated as self-damping)
SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
* Throughout the range of movement gaps in all accessible joints should be under 12mm
* Progressive restraint at extremity of movement is required
* Foot rests should be provided where the ground clearance is less than 230mm
* Hand grips should be provided for each seat or standing position
* Foot rests and hand grips should be firmly fixed and non-rotating
* Hand grip diameter: 16 - 45mm (for toddler items: 30mm maximum)
* Right-angled corners on moving equipment should be 20mm radius min. (i.e. a bird's beak)
MINIMUM SPACE
* 1000mm between items at maximum movement.
SURFACING REQUIREMENTS
There are no special extra requirements for surfacing areas
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INSTALLATION, INSPECTION, MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION
SAFETY
* Appropriate safety systems must be established by the operator
* No access should be allowed to unsafe equipment or areas
* Records should be kept by the playground operator
* Effectiveness of safety measures should be assessed annually
* Signs should be provided giving owner details and emergency service contact points
* Entrances for emergency services should be freely accessible
* Information on accidents should be kept (RoSPA has a suitable form)
* Staff and users should be safe during maintenance operations
INSPECTION
* Manufacturers will recommend the inspection frequency although some sites may need a daily check
Frequency
Routine visual inspections: identification of hazards from vandalism, use or weather conditions ( RoSPA recommends a recorded daily or
weekly inspection)
Operational inspection: every 1-3 months or as recommended. Checks operation, stability, wear etc.
Annual main inspection: checks long-term levels of safety
* An inspection schedule should be prepared for each playground, listing components and methods
* Appropriate action should be taken if defects are noted
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
* Basic routine maintenance details should be supplied by the manufacturer
CORRECTIVE MAINTENANCE
* This covers remedial work and repairs as required
* Alterations should only be carried out after consultation & agreement with the supplier or a competent person
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RoSPA provide a range of services. These include:
1. Annual inspections of
* Outdoor Play Areas
* Indoor soft play facilities
* Wheeled sports facilities (Skateboard, BMX etc)
* Multi Sports Areas
* Teenage areas
* Village Ponds
* Playing Fields
2. Post Installation Inspections of the above
3. Risk assessments of all the above
4. Individual site check lists
5. Play Value assessment of play areas
6. Access assessment under the requirements of the
Disability Discrimination Act.
7. Full field surveys (whole playing fields)
8. Impact testing of surfaces
9. Advance checking of site plans
10. Staff training and training courses
11. Accident investigations and legal reports
12. Publications of play safety
For details of any of the above, or to enquire about other RoSPA
services please contact us on:
Tel: 01367 244600
Fax: 01367 244112
Email: [email protected]
or write to:
Playsafety Ltd (RoSPA)
The Old Barn
Wicklesham Lodge
Faringdon
SN7 7PN
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1367 244600 Fax: +44 (0)1367 244112
Email: [email protected] Web: www.rospa.com/playsafety
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